Epson Adds To its Home Theater Line of Projectors

Epson has announced a new addition to its 3LCD line of home theater projector: the Epson PowerLite Home Cinema 705HD. With the 705HD, the company promises high-quality movies and gaming, and big screen HD performance for an affordable $750.

The projector has a 720p high-definition solution that works for a range of big screen activities including movies, gaming, TV shows, sports, videos, and can even play music from an iPod. The 750HD is meant to be consumer-friendly with features and performance that make home entertainment a pleasurable experience. It has a brightness 2,500 lumens of color and white light output and features four pre-set color modes. It features HDMI connectivity and USB 2.0 Type A digital connection for slideshows, along with other connection options including Component Video and S-Video.

The 750HD features Epson's trademark three-chip 3LCD technology and exclusive energy efficient E-TORL lamp which puts out optimum light uniformity and helps deliver quality move theater-like images and removes the potential for "rainbow effect." The 200 watt high efficiency design uses less energy for up to 5,000 hours of life. The projector is sleek and compact and easy to step-up and install with the Epson Universal Mount and 1.2x optical zoom and Instant On, Instant Off technology with allows for zero waiting time when you start or shut-down your projector.

The projector will be available in October through online audio/visual specialty retailers, select retailers nationwide, and the Epson online store and will include a two-year limited warranty with toll-free access to Epson's PrivateLine technical support.

Epson will also soon be selling the MovieMate 60, a 16:9 native resolution projector with a built-in dvd player and two 10 watt speakers. The MoviteMate 60 has a brightness of 2,000 lumens and will sell for about $650.

Optoma's PK102 Pico Projector

Last week, Optoma finally released its PK102 pico projector in the United States and it's selling for about $265 - just $35 more than the PK101.

As a matter of fact, the PK102 and the PK101 have a lot in common. They have the same native resolution (480 x 320), the same traditional DLP engine, and a slightly higher contrast ratio - 2,000 : 1 (up from the PK101's 1,000 : 1).

But there are some improvements from Optoma's original pico projector, which was, according to Engadget, considered the "industry's poster child." The PK102 is slightly smaller and features 4GB of internal memory. It also has new connectivity options including composite video input and a universal port which is capable of receiving VGA and component video signals. It also has a built-in speaker and can play MP3 files.

NEC's New NP4100W Large-Venue Projector

This week, NEC announced its new NP4100W wide-aspect professional installation projector. The projector is designed for large, wide-format screens in rooms with minimal lighting such as auditoriums, training and network centers. It is powered by a DLP engine and rated 5,500 ANSI lumens with a 1,280 x 800 resolution, a 16:10 aspect ratio and a 2,100:1 contrast ratio.

The projector uses optional bayonet-style lenses that support screen sizes of 40-500 inches at distances of between 2.8-304 feet and is capable of dual or single lamp operation. Settings extend lamp life by allow for multiple light outputs, and the lens shift features allows vertical and horizontal flexibility that makes projector placement in any room a simple task.

It features BrilliantColor, AutoSense, and DynamicBlack. Its input panel has DVI-D with HDCP, RCA, s-video, component, 15-pin and BNC, and an RJ45 connection makes for easy hookup to LAN. The projector also features remote diagnostics that allow the operator to make adjustments from a remote location.

The projector features an ECO mode which increases lamp life up to 50% with decreased fan noise. In ECO mode, power consumption is 315W when running the single lamp and 580W when running the double lamp. It has security features such as password protection and the ability to deactivate buttons on the cabinet.

NEC will begin shipping the NP4100W in September. The estimated price is $5,500. The projector will come with a three-year parts and labor warranty including a year with InstaCare.

ViewSonic’s New WPG-350 Wireless Presentation Gateway

The new WPG-350 Wireless Presentation Gateway from ViewSonic allows you to connect to any display with a VGA output, wirelessly, and it's so simple to use. Just plug the WPG-350 into your projector, wirlessly connect, and present your content. It's a must-have for any office or business professional!

The WPG-350 is not just easy to use, it has other great features, as well. It is fully compatible with both Windows (XP and Vista) and Mac operating systems and features WiFi protected setup for secure configuration. It is equipped with VGA pass-through for extra display and features a presentation remote. The gateway supports up to 1024x768 resolution with full high speed wireless support, full-motion video up to 1080p and up to four presenters simultaneously with split screen capabilities.

Flash memory for the WPG-350 is 8MB while SDRAM memory is 64MB. It has a wireless connectivity rate of 802.1 1b/g/n and features RGB-in, RGB-out, 3.5mm stereo jack, RJ-45, dual antenna, DC-in (12V), and IR 3.5mm connectors. The WPG-350, weighing not quite half a pound, is 5.25 x 3.6 x 1.2 inches, making it convenient and easy for travel and storage.

3M MPro120 Pocket Projector

3M’s new pocket projector called the MPro120, is “the next-generation of battery operated pocket projectors” claimed by 3M. This product is advertised saying that you can project videos, photos, business presentations, slideshows, ect. on almost any wall, almost anywhere. The MPro120 is compatible with computers, MP3 players, iPods, smartphones, and digital cameras. The MPro120 projects only 12 lumens of brightness, with VGA resolution (4:3 aspect ratios) and projects image sizes from 8” to 50”. The MPro120 has a long battery life of up to 4 hours. It also has 2 built in .5 speakers, and the bulbs are energy efficient LED lights that last 20,000 hours. This lightweight projector only weighs 5.6 ounces and has the dimensions of; 0.98" H x 4.7" D x 2.3" W. When you buy this product it comes with all the essential cables, a protective bag, a rechargeable battery, a table-top tripod, and it’s all backed by a 1 year warranty.

As of right now the MPro120 is going for $385 USD, which in my opinion is pretty steep for something that is only 12 lumens because it would have to be a pretty dark room to get a really good picture from the projector at that brightness level. I don’t find this product very efficient for my everyday use, sure it’s pretty cool but I don’t think that I would be willing to pay almost $400 for something I would only use occasionally. But then again, I’m not a traveling businessman who has to give presentations on the go. I think the MPro120 is a very cool product, and it is a very big step from the MPro110, offering a lot of new specs and some impressive new features. Not many people were very happy about the MPro110 because of the brightness level of the projection and not only that, but the image quality was horrible. But the MPro120 isn’t much brighter than the MPro110 and I really want to see how many people actually like this new product.

LP-XU10 the brightest projector under 4 kilograms

Sanyo has announced a new lightweight projector called the LP-XU106. The release date for this projector will be on November 20th. The projector weights exactly 3.4 kilograms, making it the brightest projector in its class. It projects at 4,500 lumens and a 1,000:1 contrast ratio because of the inorganic LCD panel for the optical engine, making this perfect for projecting in bright rooms. The lens has a 1.6x zoom. It also has Corner Keystone Correction Function and an Easy Setup Function. This will allow a clean crisp image without putting up a white screen or a sheet at a 1024×768 resolution and is able to put up a 40in to 300in projection.

A cool feature that the projector offers is an Ethernet port that allows you to control the projector over a network. The LP-XU106 has mono speakers; also has RCA Video, S-video, and 2 VGA inputs. This is a perfect projector for people who are traveling doing business because of how light and compact it is. The LP-XU106 will cost 575,400 yen, which roughly converts into $6,100 USD.

Nikon camera with built-in projector!

Nikon released a new camera that sounds like something you would find in a sci-fi movie. The Nikon S1000pj, has a 2.7” screen, a 12.1 mega pixel sensor, and a VGA projector. The dimensions of the camera are; Height: 2.5 in. (62.5mm) Width: 4 in. (99.5mm) Depth: 0.9 in. (23mm), and only weighs 5.5 oz. The camera has an ISO setting of up to 6400, with a 5x zoom. The projector can put a 40 inch projection on to the wall. The camera comes with a remote control and a tri-pod stand. The output resolution for the protector is VGA (640 x 480) and it will be able to play recorded videos, and play slide shows of the pictures you take. This little gadget will be running you around $430 USD.

When I heard about this camera I really couldn't believe it. I've been waiting for an affordable camera like this. Instead if hooking up your camera to your laptop, or even your TV, you can just throw up image slide shows and videos on to the wall! You can brag to your friends by showing them your vacation pictures projected in high quality on to any wall! This is a major step into the future for in the camera industry. Hopefully we will be seeing a lot more cameras that are offering new and more advance capabilities.

AAXA SVGA P2 Pico Projector

While it seems the mad wave of Pico Projectors is slowing down, some companies are still trying to make the next best one. AAXA has just unveiled their newest Pico Projector in the P2. This new model comes only a few short months after the P1's release back in February.

This P2 projector has a LCoS chip and packs an SVGA (800x600) resolution. A high-powered LED light allows for nice 33 lumen output with the SVGA resolution. You can view images with the P2 in a screen size of up to 80 inches making the P2 one of the highest spec Pico Projectors on the market. Like everything else in the world, the P2 is small. The device only measures 4.3 x 2.1 x 1 inches and only weighs about 260 grams.

The P2 has 1GB of onboard memory which can be further increased by use of the microSD slot. There is also a VGA input which accepts a resolution of 1280x720 as well as a 3.5mm headphone jack and a min USB socket which allows you to hook up gadgets like your cell phone or PSP. There is an internal battery built into the P2 which only allows for about a 35 minuet battery life. However, this can be upgraded by use of optional batteries which could increase your battery life to run an additional 70 to 180 minuets. The device isn't on sale yet but pre-orders are available on certain websites. Expect to pay around $350 for the P2 when it arrives on store shelves.

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BenQ MP522: 10 Refurbished Projectors In Stock

If you are looking for a high quality projector but you aren't prepared to drop a ton of cash on one then look no further than the Refurbished MP522 in the Tech Army E-Store. The Tech Army E-Store can save you hundreds of dollars by giving you the option of purchasing refurbished equipment instead of brand new equipment. RentOurProjectors.com is always expanding their rental inventory. When excess equipment arrives back in their rental inventory it is sent over to the people at Tech Army where it is refurbished, re-tuned and tested to make sure it's in top notch condition.

The Tech Army just recently received 10 BenQ MP522 projectors that are refurbished and ready to be put in your hands. The BenQ MP522 is designed to best work in smaller rooms. It has 1000:1 contrast ratio, 2000 ANSI lumens and a native XGA (1024x768) resolution. From 18ft away the MP522 can display a 300in image measured diagonally. Portability is good with the MP522 only weighing less than 5lbs. When put in Eco Mode the MP522 runs quieter than it does in normal mode however the brightness takes a significant drop in quality when in Eco Mode. The MP522 is primarily designed for business use however it does surprisingly well if used for watching movies or playing games on it at home. It can not handle HD movies but plays standard ones just fine. The BenQ MP522 runs at a price of $599 online if you buy it new from BenQ, but you can can order a refurbished unit today for only $445 with free shipping, a price that you can't beat.

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The Samsung P410

Samsung has just released their latest projector the P410. It has many similarities to the very successful P400 that Samsung released last year, only the Samsung P410 took all of the best qualities from the P400 and added even more incredible features.

The P410 is considered "highly portable" with its dimensions measuring 2.5 x 5.8 x 5.7 (HWD) and weighing with all the power adapters and cables only 3.4 pounds. Its not quite small enough to qualify as a palmtop, but is most certainly still very portable. The P410 even comes with a soft traveling case to increase the projectors portability.

The projector features an LED light source, which means that you can turn the Samsung P410 off after a presentation, pack it up, and be on your way without having to wait for the lamp to cool down. The LED light source also has a 30,000-hour lifetime, lasting the life of the projector. This eliminates any additional costs that you normally would have to put out to replace the lamp.

There can be little difficulty in setting up the simple P410. All that you have to do is plug in the power connector and the appropriate cable or USB key, slip off the lens cover, project the image towards a wall or screen, adjust the image size, and focus the projection with the manual control found on the P410's side. On the back of the projector are featured a variety of connectors including a VGA connector for hook up to a computer, RCA phono plugs for composite video and stereo sound, and a USB port for any kind of USB memory key. The fact that you can use a USB memory key is a great feature. This means that you can take a variety of different files such as JPG, BMP, GIF, MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MPEG-4, Motion JPEG, AVI, MOV, WAV, and more, stick them on a memory key, stick it in the USB port on the projector, and immediately have a high quality audio or video presentation.

Audio and video quality are something that should definitely be taken into consideration. The P410 is surprisingly bright for its small size measuring in at 170-ASNI lumens, a 1,000:1 contrast. The projector was designed mostly for the purpose of projecting data, so the video quality is certainly not the best. If your looking to purchase a projector for any video needs, it would probably be best to steer clear of the P410. The audio quality on the other hand is much more impressive than the video. For such a small projector, it has quite a clear tone and has easy to adjust volume.

The last big factor with the Samsung P410 is that it is one of the very few projectors to receive the PCMag GreenTech Approved seal. Samsung used lead-free glass for the lens, lead-free solder throughout the body, and a mercury-free light source.

With all the impressive features, the Samsung P410 is certainly a projector to look further into. As long as you aren't needing a projector for frequent video projection, the Samsung P410 should meet all your business needs.

New SuperSlim Projectors Coming September 2009

Soon a new breed of projectors will be bringing new meaning to the term "portable projector". Coming in September projector manufacturer Casio is updating its line of SuperSlim projectors with many new features including wide-screen. Yes you heard me right. Widescreen and SuperSlim all in one package.

The Casio XJ-S68 and XJ-S63 are two of the brightest projectors coming to the worlds thinnest projector line. These new SuperSlim projectors are 43mm at their widest point and 32mm at their slimmest, and best of all - they are respectably bright. With 3500 lumens these projectors are perfect for most presenters and would even be a contender for use with larger groups. They can also project from as little as 3 feet up to 30 feet away. They also weigh under 4 pounds.

Other features these new Casio projectors include are 2x power zoom and focus lens; automatic and manual vertical keystone correction; RS-232 control; 1 watt mono speaker; and security features including a kensington lock and power on password. The XJ-S68 and XJ-S63 are built on the same chassis but the XJ-S68 has a USB port that can be used for wireless connectivity. As far as the widescreen model goes, Casio has added the XJ-s43W as its first widescreen superslim projector. This projector sports 2500 lumens, an 1800:1 contrast ratio, 2X zoom lens, 1280 X 800 video output, HDMI input, and direct power on/off.

This new line of SuperSlim Projectors is expected to ship in September 2009.

BenQ MP620c 2000 Lumen DLP Projector

A quick internet search of tech website reviews proves that the BenQ MP620c 2000 Lumen DLP Projector is not only meeting but exceeding the expectations of all who test and purchase it. It's been described as everything from having "outstanding quality" to being "well worth the cost." The exterior is nice: square and regular, a blue color with an aluminum lens chamber that is protected by a removable cap and aluminum buttons. But don't let the simple exterior fool you, this projector has many great features.

The projector has lots of room for connections including a D-Sub in and a D-sub out, analog, S-video, a 3.5 mm audio jack, a centrally located DVI-I dual link in, and a USB mini(B) jack. Resolution is 1024 x 768 (XGA). Video goes up to 1080i. The projector also has a 2w speaker with great sound. Light source power is 285 Watts, contrast is 700:1 (static), while brightness is 2000:1 ANSI Lumen. Distance range is 3.28 -36.08 feet. The projector also has various picture modes, key lock to prevent accidental shut-down, on-screen alerts and timers, eco-mode technology, SRGB color profile, freeze frame, and auto input search. It is compatible with both Mac and PC. Its rebooting time is fast and its twin fans manage to cool down the projector without being too loud.

If you're looking for a high quality, low-budge projector, this is the one for you! Purchase a refurbished 2000 Lumen DLP Projector - BenQ MP620c for only $445.00 with free ground shipping.

The Toshiba TDP-F10U

The Toshiba TDP-F10U is an interesting new little projector to consider if you are looking for the latest in palmtops. At 1.4 pounds, it is relatively lightweight compared to other leading palmtops and has many fascinating features to consider.

One of the most useful things about the TDP-F10U is its ability to show JPEG files from an SD memory card or a USB memory key. This means that you can take your presentation, covert it to a JPEG file, store it on a card or key, and then present it through the TDP-F10U without needing a computer. This makes the palmtop extra portable.

The light source of the TDP-F10U is a DLP chip combined with LEDs. The LEDs are rated at about 20,000 hours, which should last the life of the projector. This is an important fact to consider because most standard projector lamps cost $200 or more to replace. A lifetime light source could save a lot of money in that area of future repairs.

The set up of the TDP-F10U is very simple and easy to understand. At the back of the projector there is a RCA phono plug for composite video, a VGA connector for hooking up a computer, an SD card slot, and a USB port. To get the projector up and running all that you have to do is plug in the power cord, utilize one of the connector points, the card slot, or the USB port, and you are ready to go. To make your experience even more laid back and simplified, use the credit card size remote to control all the functions of the projector.

One criticism of the TDP-F10U is that it lacks good audio. For business presentations with no sound, this shouldn’t be an issue, but for anything that might require audio you will definitely need a separate sound system.

You can get the TDP-F10U for around $600. I think that it seems like a pretty decent value for the features that it includes. Yeah, the sound isn’t perfect, but with its lifetime light source and useful qualities, I think the TDP-F10U would be a satisfying buy.

Light Blue Optic's New Projector Development

Light Blue Optics announced that they will be demonstrating their latest technological development in miniature projection systems to their key customers and partners at Display Week in San Antonio, Texas. Utilizing their holographic laser projection technology, Light Blue Optics has created a small accessory projector that produces bright high quality video and WVGA-QVGA images. This amazing little projector can produce 10 lumens or more depending on the content being displayed. Because of the laser-based technology, you no longer have to worry about focusing the content shown for a clear presentation. Images stay focused at any distance from the projector. This projector also features an optical architecture that allows the system to be safe under all normal uses. It meets the most rigorous Class 1 laser safety qualifications and has opened up a variety of high-volume applications in consumer electronics.

Another fascinating feature of this new little projector is its ability to switch from the typical wall projection to a newly developed table down projection mode. In this mode, the projector is placed on the table and the display is projected down onto the table in front of it. The user is then able to view and present their material in a more accessible way without having to hold the projector steady in their hand the entire time. An additional configuration of the projector will allow the user to interact with multimedia content. With this astounding feature, any flat surface can instantly be turned into an interactive touch-sensitive display.

Light Blue Optics has most definitely made leap and bounds in the development of projectors. This amazing new projector incorporates the latest holographic laser technology with new display modes and touch-sensitive interaction. I can’t think of what could be more useful than this fantastic projector and can’t wait till it is finally released.